Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company provides services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive treatments for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors conducting termite checks will look around your home's exterior for visible damage. They’ll check over structures in contact with the soil, outdoor wood, and damp areas that could attract termites, such as the following:- Cracks in expansion joints
- Deadwood
- Firewood stacks
- Pooling water around the foundation
- Standing water on the roof
- Wood mulch close to the foundation
- Wooden deck supports
- Wooden fences
Interior Inspection
When evaluating for termites, companies often pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection focuses on humid areas, potential entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might check the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest a strategic treatment plan to remove the termites effectively. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. Chemical termite treatments regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides saturate the soil surrounding homes and act as a barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. A more intensive solution is fumigation. Fumigation involves vacating your home, sealing it off, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To fix your current termite situation, the inspection company might propose a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. The inspector may advise landscaping modifications or structural alterations to increase drainage and minimize potential entry points. Taking care of these issues will reduce your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians assess for signs of new or increased termite activity. Part of this service involves replacing baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as needed. The recurring visits lessen the risk of extensive damage and often come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspectors frequently back their services with reservice warranties. These warranties will pay for the cost of additional appointments to deal with the termites should they reappear in a specificed time period following the original service. Some pest professionals take it a step further and provide repair warranties. This type of warranty covers the cost of fixing any new termite damage that occurs after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are a number of factors that homeowners should consider when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: A provider's time in business can indicate its knowledge and expertise. Providers with more industry experience can often handle termites more effectively.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that include reservice or repair. Get the agreements in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Pesticide applicators in North Carolina must be licensed by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Your provider will likely have either a commercial ground applicator or a public ground operator license. Also, confirm that the company is properly insured. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Researching businesses on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, reading online reviews, and getting input from friends and family can offer insight into the customer experience. High customer satisfaction is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect.